Ground-based lasers could push away space debris
MAR 16, 2011
DOI: 10.1063/PT.5.025138
Nature : Although it’s possible to use a ground-based laser to move space debris out of the way of satellites, the idea hasn’t been put into practice out of fear that the lasers could also be used as antisatellite weapons. To alleviate that fear, James Mason of NASA’s Ames Research Center has proposed using a ground-based laser whose power is high enough to nudge debris out of the way but low enough to avoid harming spacecraft. Nature‘s Jon Cartwright reports that Mason’s idea appears feasible—except, perhaps, for moving massive pieces. Its harmlessness is in doubt, however. Nudging a satellite off course could also constitute a hostile act.
© 2011 American Institute of Physics
